Alexis Rockman's "Rubicon" - epic paintings of apocalyptic scenarios

For almost three decades, painter Alexis Rockman has depicted a darkly surreal vision of the collision between civilization and nature. The artist's epic paintings of apocalyptic scenarios, once described as "toxic sublime," demonstrate his signature subject matter as well as his meticulous technique depicting scientific detail, skillful use of intense color, and monumental scale. A recent exhibition's title "Rubicon," an expression originating with Julius Caesar's passing of the Rubicon River in 49 BC and thereafter becoming synonymous with "the point of no return," alludes to the artist's belief that our natural world has suffered irrevocable damage, beyond repair. This exhibition was held at Sperone Westwater gallery in New York City during the fall of 2013. (Yahoo News)